"We are certain to encounter opposition. The Senate may not ratify this Texas treaty."
"The Senate will not ratify," said he. "I am perfectly well advised of how the vote will be when this treaty comes before it for ratification. We will be beaten, two to one!"
"Then, does that not end it?"
"End it? No! There are always other ways. If the people of this country wish Texas to belong to our flag, she will so belong. It is as good as done to-day. Never look at the obstacles; look at the goal! It was this intrigue of Van Zandt's which stood in our way. By playing one intrigue against another, we have won thus far. We must go on winning!"
He paced up and down the room, one hand smiting the other. "Let England whistle now!" he exclaimed exultantly. "We shall annex Texas, in full view, indeed, of all possible consequences. There can be no consequences, for England has no excuse left for war over Texas. I only wish the situation were as clear for Oregon."
"There'll be bad news for our friend Señor Yturrio when he gets back to his own legation!" I ventured.
"Let him then face that day when Mexico shall see fit to look to us for aid and counsel. We will build a mighty country here, on this continent!"
"Mr. Pakenham is accredited to have certain influence in our Senate."
"Yes. We have his influence exactly weighed. Yet I rejoice in at least one thing—one of his best allies is not here."
"You mean Señor Yturrio?"